Wendell Castle is the father of art furniture, and his pieces are so masterfully crafted that you don’t know whether you should actually be using them or if they should be in a gallery somewhere.

This clock, dubbed the ‘ghost clock,’ certainly belongs in the art category. Created in 1985, it is on display at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. and at first glance seems to be simply an old grandfather clock draped in a protective sheet. A new exhibit perhaps, or maybe it was damaged and has been covered while awaiting repairs.

Looks can be deceiving however, and only upon reading the plaque underneath can the truth be revealed. The deception is so convincing, the work so intricately carved and sculpted, that it would be impossible to tell from pictures only. It has certainly gotten the attention of visitors who, confused at first, get the magic aha! moment when reading the explanation on the display plaque below.

Scroll down below to find out how Wendell Castle created his ‘Ghost Clock,’ it’s truly a stunning piece of art!